On October 30 2026, was more than another day of celebrating Creole Day at Achievement Learning Centre (ALC). It was an opportunity to give back, demonstrate the value of partnership and reinforce an important lesson among its students and families: everyone, regardless of their circumstances or abilities, has something to contribute to society.
Achievement Learning Centre was pleased to welcome representatives of the Dominica Sificol Alumni Association (DSAA), Barbara Philip and Wynante Adrien Roberts, as the school made a contribution of school supplies towards the Association's School Supplies Drive.
While ALC has benefited from the generosity and support of the DSAA, one of its benefactors, this gesture represented an opportunity for the Centre to reciprocate by contributing to an initiative that seeks to support other children in the wider community.
According to the school's Executive Director, Beverly Leblanc, while the Centre is grateful for the support it continues to receive from individuals and organisations, it is equally important to cultivate a culture of generosity, reciprocity and giving back among its children and their parents.
"At Achievement Learning Centre, our focus is on children with disabilities and special educational needs. However, we recognise that there are many other children in our communities, including those in mainstream classrooms, who may not always have access to the school supplies they need. We want our children and parents to understand that receiving support does not mean we cannot also give. Regardless of our circumstances, we all have something to contribute, and giving back is an important part of building caring and supportive communities."
The contribution reflects ALC's commitment to education beyond the classroom. The Centre believes that nurturing children involves developing not only their academic abilities and independence, but also their empathy, compassion, social responsibility and appreciation for the needs of others.
The Representatives of DSAA, highlighted the importance of partnerships such as this, noting that collaborative efforts help to build the country. Such partnerships demonstrate how individuals and organisations can work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
For Achievement Learning Centre, participation in the DSAA School Supplies Drive is also an expression of its understanding of inclusion. Children with disabilities and special educational needs should not be viewed solely as recipients of care and assistance. They are also individuals with the capacity to participate, contribute and positively influence their communities.
The Achievement Learning Centre extends its appreciation to the Dominica Sificol Alumni Association for its continued support and for providing an opportunity to participate in this worthwhile initiative. At Achievement Learning Centre, giving back is also part of learning.
